Investigations on mechanical behaviour of LM 13/SiC/Gr hybrid composite using compocasting method

Abstract

Aluminium hybrid metal matrix composites replaces single reinforced composites in many applications due to its mechanical and tribological properties. Many investigations have been carried out on mechanical behaviour of hybrid composites but so far no investigations have been carried out with piston alloy. This investigation focuses on to find the influence of graphite (Gr) particulates as secondary reinforcement on the mechanical behaviour of LM 13/Silicon carbide (SiC) composites. The hybrid composites are produced by compocasting method in stir casting process. The reinforcement silicon carbide was varied from 0 to 12 Wt % in a step of 3 and the graphite is kept constant at 4 Wt %. The mechanical behaviour of the composite was investigated. The particles distribution and elemental mapping was carried out with field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The results indicate that increase in silicon carbide and graphite improves the mechanical behaviour of the composites.